Maharashtra Government to Launch 'Ladki Bahin' Financial Assistance Scheme for Women

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that over one crore eligible women in the state will receive Rs 1,500 per month under the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme starting August 17. The scheme, which has already begun a trial run, was included in the supplementary state budget and will cost Rs 46,000 crore annually.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Thursday that over one crore eligible women in the state will begin receiving Rs 1,500 monthly financial assistance under the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme starting August 17.

Fadnavis stated that some eligible women had already received Rs 3,000, covering initial two-month payments, during the scheme's trial run.

The scheme, initially set for an August 17 launch, now retroactively considers July as its commencement month. Included in the supplementary state budget, it is projected to cost Rs 46,000 crore annually and is seen as a key initiative by the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government. With assembly elections likely in October or November, the scheme is being promoted as a Raksha Bandhan gift to women.

(With inputs from agencies.)